Bialik College stoush heads to meditation

A DISPUTE between Bialik College and sacked former principal Joseph Gerassi went before the work place relations tribunal Fair Work Australia on Monday.

Gerassi’s abrupt axing in August this year came after less than three years at the helm for the respected educator, who moved from King David School in Johannesburg, South Africa to take up the position.

Gerassi told The AJN talks were ongoing.

“We took the case to Fair Work Australia and we’re still in the process of mediation,” Gerassi said. “Discussions are continuing.”

Bialik president Graham Goldsmith said he was unable to comment on the conciliation process. At the time of the sacking, Goldsmith sent a letter to parents of Bialik students, saying that the Hawthorn East school’s council had “lost confidence” in Gerassi’s “ability to lead the school”.

The AJN understands the Bialik council bowed to pressure from several teachers, who threatened to quit unless Gerassi was stood down.

But the move to oust Gerassi drew the ire of some parents and teachers.

The school jumped from fourth on the list of best performed VCE schools in 2009 to third in 2010 with enrolments reaching capacity during Gerassi’s tenure.

South African-born Gerassi began at the school in 2009, taking over from long-standing principal Genia Janover after her retirement.

ADAM KAMIEN